Mercedes Secret Concept Car Leaked, Pays Tribute to Legendary "Red Pig" Racer

In his new book *Iconic Design*, former Mercedes-Benz Chief Design Officer Gorden Wagener has unveiled for the first time a previously unreleased secret concept car. The vehicle pays homage to the iconic 1971 AMG race car, the 300 SEL 6.8 AMG—nicknamed the "Red Pig"—featuring its signature red livery and replicating its appearance from the 24 Hours of Spa endurance race, though real sponsor logos have been replaced with fictional brands such as "Carlsbad," a nod to Mercedes-Benz’s design studio in California. The concept retains the "Red Pig’s" distinctive chrome grille but updates it with modern aerodynamic elements and star-shaped lighting signatures in place of the original stacked headlights. Rather than fully replicating the boxy silhouette of the 300 SEL, the bodywork blends softer, rounded lines inspired by the earlier 1950s "Ponton" sedans, striking a balance between classic heritage and contemporary design.